BYD's 5-minute EV flash chargers coming to Europe
BYD's (which stands for Build Your Dreams) executive vice president Stella Li announced the news to journalists in Brussels last week. The ultra-rapid chargers use a 1,000kW architecture, making them much more powerful than its US rival's Superchargers, which only charge up to 250kW and deliver 172 miles in 15 minutes.
Li claims the flash chargers will allow EV drivers to replenish their batteries in just five minutes with the technology described as a 'game changer' that will boost EV confidence and remove range and charge anxiety. Initially, the devices will be installed at BYD dealerships, though other partnerships and locations are currently under consideration.
Part of the brand's Super e-Platform – which includes an overhauled powertrain, an upgraded motor and battery - the 'flash chargers' add 1.2 miles of range per second, which gives the five-minute industry-first figure. The chargers also let cars with older batteries top up 20 to 30 percent faster than normal.
BYD already sells EVs equipped with batteries that can recharge up to 250 miles (400km) in five minutes. While the confirmation from Stella Li is good news for European BYD drivers, no extra details have been given as to how the chargers will cater for European EV technology.
There are currently limitations on Europe's CCS (Combined Charging System) rapid chargers which cap power at 500kW, with many manufacturers limiting EVs to lower charging figures to help long term battery health. Most European EVs can handle up to 200kW on a 500A charger, with only a few able to handle up to 350kW. BYD's 1,000kW chargers massively overshoot this.
The expansion of BYD's charging network into Europe is the latest part of the Shenzhen-based company's goal to dominate the EV and plug-in hybrid market in Europe. Li explained that by 2030 BYD wants to be a major player in the European automotive market, with plans to open a production site in Hungary this year, along with a R&D center and a European headquarters in Budapest.
BYD's European sales have seen steady monthly growth of 10 percent, Li says, with the carmaker aiming to build more production sites on the continent in the future if sales continue to go well. Li commented: 'We are going to build in Europe to sell in Europe. We are looking at the long-term. We are here to stay.'
Which BYD cars can you buy in the UK?
BYD arrived in 2023 and brought with it three models that undercut European brands by offering high levels of quality, tech, and battery advancements for a more affordable price: the Atto 3, the Dolphin and the Seal which cost £37,705, £26,205 and £45,705 respectively. The forthcoming Atto 2 compact SUV will arrive later this year and is set to start at £30,000.
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